WIREDGOV

Enquiries are continuing as part of our investigation into the fatal shooting of Trevor Smith in Lee Bank, Birmingham earlier this month, and we provided an update at the opening of an inquest yesterday (Tuesday 26 March).

We have informed the inquest that Mr Smith was fatally shot by an armed police officer in a bedroom at his flat at Wheeleys Lane, soon after police arrived at about 4.50 am on the morning of Friday 15 March. Officers had been there to carry out a search warrant obtained under Section 8 of the Police and Criminal Evidence Act (PACE).

A post mortem carried out on 16 March gave the cause of death as a single gunshot wound to the chest. A non-police issue firearm found at the scene is being forensically examined. Accounts from police personnel involved are being reviewed, along with body worn video footage, and all the officers are being treated as witnesses.

IOPC Regional Director for the West Midlands, Derrick Campbell, yesterday said:

“I repeat my condolences to the family of Trevor Smith, and all those affected by his death. We have met Mr Smith’s family to explain how the investigation will progress, share what information we can at this early stage, and listen carefully to their questions.

“IOPC investigators were present at the police post incident process, as well as overseeing the search and examination of the scene that morning to ensure evidence was appropriately secured and preserved. Our investigation is examining the intelligence that led to the police operation and the actions and decision-making of the officers involved.  I would again encourage people to show patience while the investigation is carried out.”

Mr Smith’s family has asked for their privacy to be respected at this difficult time.

We advised the inquest opening that the IOPC investigation is expected to take around nine months.